FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2025
Fort Walton Beach, FL – The NAACP, Okaloosa County Branch today announced its formal request that the City of Fort Walton Beach transition from a purely at-large commission system to a hybrid model combining district-based and at-large representation. This change aims to ensure fairer, more equitable representation for all residents.
Background
Residents of Fort Walton Beach face unique demographic challenges:
• 23% of the population is aged 65 and older—significantly higher than neighboring cities—and may be underrepresented in citywide at-large elections.
• Approximately 14% of households moved within the last year, reflecting a transient population whose local voices can be drowned out in citywide contests.
A hybrid system would divide the city into geographic districts while maintaining at-large seats, blending local accountability with citywide perspective.
Key Benefits of Hybrid Governance
• Enhanced Voter Access: Smaller districts make it easier for candidates to engage directly with voters.
• Stronger Community Voices: District seats ensure neighborhoods with distinct needs—seniors, renters, and newly arrived families—have dedicated advocates. • Balanced Oversight: At-large seats preserve a citywide focus on overarching priorities like economic development and environmental resilience.
• Increased Civic Participation: District elections often generate higher turnout, as voters feel their ballot has a greater local impact.
Statement from NAACP President Sabu L. Williams
“Fort Walton Beach stands at a crossroads,” said Sabu L. Williams, President of the NAACP, Okaloosa County Branch. “By adopting a hybrid governance model, our city can ensure every neighborhood—from those with a large senior population to our most transient communities—has a voice at City Hall. This reform isn’t just about maps; it’s about renewing trust, boosting civic engagement, and crafting policies that reflect our city’s full diversity.”
Next Steps and Call to Action
The NAACP, Okaloosa County Branch urges City Council to:
1. Commission an independent study to design fair district boundaries. 2. Host a series of public forums—both in-person and virtual—to gather resident input.
3. Place a charter amendment on the next municipal ballot for voter approval.
“We invite every Fort Walton Beach resident to join us in this effort,” added Williams. “Our strength lies in our collective voice. Let’s build a government that truly represents us all.”
Media Contact
Sabu L. Williams
President,
NAACP, Okaloosa County Branch
Phone: (850) 783-0047
Email: ocnaacp@gmail.com Website: www.naacp-okaloosa.org